Deodorant Vs Anti-perspirant
First of all, its important to know the difference between the two. A deodorant is generally designed as an anti-bacterial solution, aimed at killing bacteria that can create a bad smell. Anti-perspirant keeps your armpits dry by sealing off sweat glands with aluminium salts and other compounds. Some products combine the two, offering both anti-bacterial and sweat blocking compounds together.
Aluminium
This is the primary ingredient used to block sweat glands. While the evidence is not conclusive by any means, Aluminium has been linked to breast cancer, and an increased risk of Alzheimers disease.
Parabens
Parabens are synthetic preservatives, found not only in deodorants, but in an alarming amount of our body care products. A random sampling of 100 human urine specimens performed by the CDC showed that all 100 contained parabens. This demonstrates the high absorption rate of chemicals we place on our skin.
Propylene glycol
This is a petroleum based material that is used to soften cosmetic products, and is a cheap way to make them more easily applicable to the skin. While some claim it is in too small amount to have an effect on our health, studies have shown large quantities can cause damage to the central nervous system, liver and heart.
Phthalates
These chemicals are primarily used to help dissolve other ingredients and create better consistency in our deodorants and cosmetics. High phthalate blood and urine levels in women of child bearing age have been linked to a higher risk of birth defects. This suggests that phthalates may disrupt hormone receptors as well as increase the likelihood of cell mutation.
Triclosan
This ingredient is utilised as the odour killing part of anti-perspirants for its anti-bacterial properties. Triclosan is actually classified as a pesticide by the FDA, and as a probable carcinogen by the EPA. This classification has prompted some companies to remove it from their products.
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